Gender and Perceived Illness Severity

Abstract

Although research has indicated a link between gender and perceived illness severity and the employment status of people with multiple sclerosis (MS), it has not addressed questions regarding the relationship between those variables and specific types of employment concerns. In this study, a sample of 1,310 adults with MS replied to a mail survey eliciting their concerns regarding employment services and policies. Regardless of perceived severity and gender, adults with MS were dissatisfied with many important employment services and policies. Findings also indicated gender and severity interactions, which are discussed in terms of implications for rehabilitation interventions.